In this episode, host Jason Pawloski sits down with Justin Hanneken, Executive Director of Ends of the Earth Adventures and associate pastor, for the first part of a powerful two-part conversation. Justin shares his remarkable journey from being a troubled high school senior—stealing car stereos and rejecting God—to experiencing a life-altering encounter with Jesus in 1999 through a friend’s persistence and a simple game of basketball. That moment marked the beginning of a radical transformation that would reshape the direction of his life.

Justin also opens up about the impact of reconciliation with his father, who came to faith the same year. He reflects on a defining moment when his dad prayed over him and spoke 1 John 2 into his life—an act that became a turning point and helped solidify his calling and future ministry. From there, the conversation traces the unexpected birth of a cycling ministry, beginning with a challenge to ride a bike 300 miles to Key West despite weighing 268 pounds and openly disliking cycling. That single act of obedience sparked a movement that has since cycled in all 50 states and raised over $1.7 million to support and mobilize youth around the world.

Throughout the episode, Justin shares what it looks like to live missionally in everyday life—from initially refusing to go on a mission trip to Mexico to experiencing God’s persistent calling through unexpected moments, even in a laundry room. This episode highlights a central truth: God can use our passions, hobbies, and willingness to say yes—whether through cycling, surfing, or hiking—to carry the Gospel to the ends of the earth. Be sure to tune in next week for Part 2, where the conversation continues with a deeper focus on biblical manhood and fatherhood.